An initiative to support our essential workers, thanks to the CR Clothing Co./Charla Ruschelle

The current pandemic is clearly creating (in the words of the Dean of the Wake Forest University School of Divinity) a new normal. There are adjustments that many are making in light of the current situation.

However, instead of getting caught up in the doom and gloom, there are a number of people who are proactive in their efforts to lend support and encouragement, especially to those who are part of the "front-lines", including the health and related professions. And one entity that is taking the initiative to do their part is none other than the Atlanta-based fashion design company CR Clothing Co./Charla Ruschelle.

Through the vision and leadership of the owner (Charla R. Mitchell), along with ATLWomenInFashion (in tandem with Grind Pretty), the Face Mask Initiative is an effort where segments of the Atlanta's small business and fashion community are responding assertively to the needs of essential and related workers. In being a bridge-builder, the "community-united" focus results in creating unique styles of handmade masks.

But it's more than being fashionable and providing an added tier of safety given the current health landscape.

Through identification of medical and related facilities, along with augmented engagement with the marketplace, support is provided to venues in Atlanta, Houston, as well as the states of Maryland and California.

Thanks to the marketplace response, more than 100 masks are donated to the aforementioned venues.

"The need for additional face coverage is necessary for our essential people right now, and my mission as 30+ year sew-er and fashion designer (as well as an alum of Clark-Atlanta University and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.) is to act and be a part of the solution", Mitchell emphasizes.

To make a purchase and lend support, readers are encouraged to visit the website of CR Clothing Company Co./Charla Ruschelle (click HERE to visit their site) along with their social media, specifically on Instagram (visit @crcco as well as @ctheworkshop) and Facebook (CR Clothing Co and CTheWorkshop). Likewise, readers may patronize her shop located in the Old Fourth Ward (for details, refer to the website).

Fashion is one thing, but responding to areas of need sure is more fashionable.